Credit Where It's Due

August 27, 2009|By NICOLE PAITSEL Daily Press

While first-time home buyers are racking up an $8,000 tax credit this year, current homeowners can take advantage of a tax break, too. Energy-efficient improvements to windows, doors, heating and air systems and other areas of your home can make you eligible for a $1,500 tax credit. There are a few things you should know before heading to the store, though. First, the new items must meet certain specifications in order to qualify. Second, most of the time, the qualifying products are more expensive than your average fix. Even so, we break down the home improvements that can earn you a tax credit on page 3.